Hey!  Do your weekend plans involve baking?  However, do your cakes sometimes turn out not as moist as you hoped, or dense or do they sink?  Or do you simply want to improve the quality of your baked goods?

One of my besties who makes amazing chocolate chilli cakes, sticky toffee puddings, and the list could go on, was telling me of another friend who was complaining that her banana cake turns out pretty heavy.  Her advice: follow the recipe, and use the correct measuring cups and spoons!  A simple yet highly effective tip.

Baking is an art, but for consistent results, it is a science.  Accurate measurements are essential when baking and so you need the right tools.

1. Measuring cups or a scale

In my opinion, cups are easier to use than a scale unless it is a digital/electronic scale. (Please excuse my not-so-clean, more-than-a-decade-old scale.)

My bestie disagrees.  She says “Unless you’re obsessive about getting the measurement right to the last gram!”  In her view, “Recipes using cups give the newbies the illusion that you can use any cup in your cupboard and everything will turn out just right – wrong!”

Valid point.  Do not use a teacup or mug in place of a measuring cup.

Cups are bought in sets of 1/4, 1/3, 1/2 and 1 cups.  Level off the dry ingredient with the straight edge of a knife.  But, for solid fats, pack down firmly with a spoon.

2. Glass measuring jug

These are best for measuring liquids.  Do not use to measure dry ingredients.

3. Measuring spoons

These sets usually consist of a tablespoon, 2 teaspoons, 1/2 teaspoon and 1/4 teaspoon.  They may be in plastic or metal.  Use to measure liquid and dry ingredients.

It is important to note that the “tablespoon” in your kitchen drawer is not the correct tablespoon measurement.  The “tablespoon” in your kitchen is in fact a dessert spoon and holds about a teaspoon less in volume than an actual tablespoon.  It may not be very clear in the picture below, but notice the depth of the tablespoon.  Confirm it for yourself though.  See how many teaspoons each takes.

4. Spatulas and a hand-held mixer

These just make your life so much easier.

Happy baking!